MBBS in Philippines

MBBS in the Philippines -Introduction

Studying MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) in the Philippines is becoming an increasingly popular option for international students, including those from India and other South Asian countries. Philippine medical institutions follow a US-based curriculum and offer an English-speaking learning environment, making it easier for international students to adapt. Additionally, the cost of studying medicine in the Philippines is relatively lower compared to other countries like the US or UK. Private medical institutions generally charge higher tuition fees than public universities.

Students must have a good academic record, pass the NMAT (National Medical Admission Test), and fulfill other requirements to get admission to a medical college in the Philippines.

About the Philippines

• The Philippines has a rich history and a diverse culture, influenced by its colonial past as a Spanish and American colony, with many cultural and historical sites such as the walled city of Intramuros, the Baroque churches of the Philippines, and the Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park being recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands located in Southeast Asia.
• It is the worlds 13^th most populous country, with a population of approximately 110 million people and the country has a literacy rate of around 97%
• The capital city is Manila, and the countrys official languages are Filipino and English.
• The country is known for its beautiful beaches, tropical climate, and stunning natural landscapes.
• It is also a popular destination for adventure seekers, with activities such as scuba diving, surfing, and hiking available.
• The temperature in the Philippines typically ranges from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius (68 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit), depending on the season and location. 

MBBS in the Philippines 2023 – A Quick Overview

Why Study Medicine in the Philippines? 

There are several reasons why studying medicine in the Philippines can be a good option for students who aspire to become successful doctors:

1. High-Quality Education: Medical education in the Philippines is of high quality, and many medical schools in the country are recognized by international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Medical Commission (NMC), and the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).
2. Affordable Tuition Fees: The cost of studying medicine in the Philippines is relatively low compared to other countries like the USA, UK, and Australia. Students can save a significant amount of money on tuition fees and other expenses, making it an attractive option for those who are looking for a cost-effective option.
3. English Medium Education: The medium of instruction in medical schools in the Philippines is English, which makes it easier for international students, including Indians, to study and communicate with their professors and colleagues.
4. Clinical Exposure: Medical schools in the Philippines provide ample opportunities for students to gain clinical exposure and hands-on experience through internships and hospital rotations. This exposure can help students develop the necessary skills and knowledge required to become successful doctors.
5. Recognized Medical Degree: Medical graduates from recognized medical institutes in the Philippines are eligible to take international medical licensing exams such as the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), which opens up more opportunities for them to pursue their careers globally.

Long Duration for MBBS in the Philippines Program

• The MBBS course in the Philippines is called MD (Doctor of Medicine) and it typically lasts for 4 years, followed by a one-year internship. 

• In the Philippines, the MBBS degree is provided through a BS-MD (Bachelor of Science - Doctor of Medicine) program. This program combines the undergraduate Bachelor of Science degree with the postgraduate Doctor of Medicine degree, resulting in a seamless six-year program.
• BS program is an important component of the MBBS program in the Philippines, providing a strong foundation in the basic sciences. It usually covers pre-medical courses, including biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, along with humanities and social sciences courses.
• After completing the BS program, which is usually covered in the first 18 months of the BS-MD program, students must pass the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) before they can proceed to the four-year medical curriculum (MD degree).
• After completing the medical curriculum, graduates must have one-year internship as per MCI regulation.

The choice of where to complete the internship ultimately depends on the students preference and career goals. Completing the internship in India may provide better opportunities for practicing medicine in India, while completing the internship in the Philippines may provide exposure to a different healthcare system and medical practices. It is important for students to research and consider their options carefully before making a decision.

List of Top Medical Universities in the Philippines

Here are some of the top medical universities in the Philippines:

1. University of Perpetual Help 
2. UV Gullas College of Medicine
3. University of the Philippines Manila 
4. Ateneo de Manila University School of Medicine and Public Health
5. De La Salle Health Sciences Institute College of Medicine
6. University of Santo Tomas 
7. Far Eastern University - Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation Institute of Medicine
8. Cebu Doctors University College of Medicine
9. Saint Louis University - School of Medicine
10. Southwestern University - Matias H. Aznar Memorial College of Medicine
11. Our Lady of Fatima University College of Medicine
12. Davao Medical School Foundation
13. AMA School of Medicine
14. Lyceum Northwestern University
15. Xavier University
16. Bicol Christian College of Medicine

Intake for MBBS Admission in the Philippines

• In the Philippines, the session begins in the September month. 
• The application process for MBBS programs in the Philippines usually starts two months before the beginning of the session.
• However, it is advisable to check with the specific universities as some may have different timelines.

Eligibility for MBBS Admission in the Philippines

The eligibility criteria for admission to BS-MD programs in the top medical universities in the Philippines may vary slightly from one university to another. However, here are some general requirements that need to be met:

1. Academic Qualifications: The candidate must have completed high school or its equivalent with a minimum of 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology for general and 40% marks for reserved categories.
2. Age: The student must be between 17-25 years at the time of admission.
3. Entrance Examinations: Candidates are required to take the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) conducted by the Center for Educational Measurement, Inc. (CEM) in the Philippines. 
4. Language Proficiency: Candidates may be required to submit proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores.
5. Medical Fitness: Applicants must undergo a health checkup and provide a certificate stating that they are medically fit.

Admission Procedure for MBBS in the Philippines
The admission procedure for MBBS in the Philippines for Indian students may vary slightly depending on the university. Following are the general steps:

1. Research: The first step is to research the different medical universities in the Philippines and select the one that best suits your requirements.
2. Submit Application: Fill out the application form for the university and submit all the required documents, including educational certificates, passports, and NMAT scores.
3. Application Review: The university will review your application and notify you of the outcome.
4. Letter of Acceptance: If you are accepted, the university will issue a letter of acceptance.
5. Apply for a Student Visa: Apply for a student visa at the Philippine embassy in India or through a visa application center.
6. Travel to the Philippines: After obtaining the student visa, you can travel to the Philippines and complete the admission formalities, such as paying the fees and registering for classes.
7. Attend Orientation: Attend the orientation program, which will provide you with information on the curriculum, rules, and regulations of the university.

It is important to note that the admission process may take several weeks, and candidates are advised to apply well in advance to ensure timely processing of their application.

Required Documents
Here are some of the required documents for MBBS admission in the Philippines for Indian students:

1. High school diploma or its equivalent
2. Mark sheets of 10th and 12th grades
3. National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) scores
4. Passport (with at least six months validity)
5. Birth certificate
6. Medical certificate 
7. Police clearance certificate
8. Letter of recommendation 
9. Statement of purpose (SOP)
10. Bank statement as proof of financial support

It is important to note that the admission requirements may vary depending on the university, and candidates are advised to check the specific requirements of the university they wish to apply to. The documents should be in English or translated into English and notarized by a public notary.

Food and Accommodation Facilities in the Philippines

Medical universities in the Philippines generally provide accommodation facilities for international students, including Indian students. These accommodation facilities are usually located on or near the university campus, making it convenient for students to attend classes and access other university facilities.

Regarding food facilities, there are many options available to Indian students in the Philippines. Most universities have on-campus cafeterias and dining halls that offer a variety of cuisines, including Indian food. Students can also find restaurants and food outlets in the vicinity of the university that serve Indian food.

Students should research the cost of living in the Philippines and plan their finances accordingly before planning to pursue MBBS in the Philippines.

Why Educoupe?

We, Educoupe Education and Visa Consultants, are a team of professional study abroad counselors with a specialization in the medical field. We offer a range of services to Indian students who wish to study MBBS abroad, including counseling, documentation assistance, admission procedure guidance, and education loan assistance. 

We are experienced consultants who can help students with every aspect of the study abroad process, from choosing the right university to applying for a student visa. Having in-depth knowledge of the admission requirements of various universities in Philippines, we can help students prepare all the necessary documents for admission. With our expertise, students can make informed decisions and achieve their dream of studying medicine in Philippines. 

Feel free to contact us now.